Weekly Update// Pastor Will

Hi friends,

Last week, we had our final meeting with our confirmation students before they are confirmed in a few weeks. We planned to speak about the sacraments, baptism and Holy Communion, and also to partake in Holy Communion at the end of our class. I was inspired by the students' curiosity about communion. It was fun to answer their questions and explain the theological significance of different parts of the sacrament. For example, I mentioned that the bread we receive is given to us, not taken, which is analogous to God's grace for us. I also explained that the unleavened bread we use is the same kind of bread that Jesus would have used at his last meal with his disciples.

While we know a lot about the theology of communion, there are also some things we don't fully understand. The word "sacrament" comes from the Latin word "sacramentum," meaning "sacred oath" or "mystery." As C.S. Lewis said about the Last Supper, "The command, after all, was Take, eat: not Take, understand." It's okay that we don't fully comprehend everything that happens during communion, but we still participate trusting that God is at work.

As we approach the Advent season, we have a few things happening before then. This Sunday, November 12th, we will be honoring our veterans. Please wear your uniform if you served so we can honor you! We will also continue our series "A Community That Thrives" and talk about gifts and the ways we give of ourselves financially to help the church community. Please join us if possible!

Finally, on Celebration and Commitment Sunday, November 19, we will look back on all the ways God has moved through Asbury and commit ourselves to the upcoming year. This will be one combined service at 10:45 am in the Sanctuary, followed by a potluck in the Fellowship Hall. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share.

As always, it's shaping up to be a fantastic end of the year. I look forward to ending 2023 well with you all!

Thanks and God bless,

Will